Following reports Rockhampton is in desperate need of GPs as well as specialists such as anesthetists, cardiologists and psychiatrists, Dr Cashion said local medical professionals were under pressure due to patient demand and patients were also disadvantaged.

"Part of the problem is Rockhampton isn't deemed a district of workforce shortage," Dr Cashion said.

"We don't want doctors to come and work for a short time, we want them to come and settle with their families.

"As a medical group and a community we need to promote the area as a great place to settle in."